Many people think they know what allergies are like -- sniffles and headaches which come and go with the seasons. However, allergies can have many, many causes and many more effects on the human body.

Some people have year-round allergies due to different environmental factors depending on the time of year. Allergies may come from pollens from grasses or trees or flowers. Many people are allergic to dust mites and mold, as well. Some of us are also allergic to dogs, cats and even cockroaches.

Mild allergies often present as stuffy nose and sore throat but can cause exhaustion, sinus or ear infection, swollen gums, joint pain, rashes, digestive problems and even depression. Sometimes it is difficult to tell that you are suffering from allergies. So if you have joint pain or you fall asleep very early, as well as having symptoms like a head-cold try taking allergy medicine. Unfortunately, much of the allergy medicine available can cause additional drowsiness. Nasal decongestants and sprays can relieve symptoms temporarily but can cause even more infections if used for too long a period.

So what about food allergies? What are the causes and symptoms of those?

Recently a connection between oral and environmental allergies has been found. For example, if you are allergic to wheat, sometimes you are allergic to the pollen of wheatgrass in the air. Or if you are allergic to beech trees you are likely allergic to many types of fruit.

Unfortunately, more and more people are being diagnosed with food allergies, perhaps due to increased use of pesticides or some other reasons. Many people are allergic to wheat or soy but others have allergies to much more than that. Dietary needs such as these can put a strain on friendships and create high-maintenance situations at restaurants.

If you or a family member are suffering from what could be allergy-related symptoms, ask a doctor for help. Sometimes shots or acupuncture can improve your quality of life by curing allergies.